What inspires you in home design?

I’m inspired by good architecture—from the ancient to the modern, as there are wonderful interpretations from any period. My favorite has to be the 1920s, however. [It was] a golden age of beauty, craftsmanship, and thoughtfulness, even in the most modest of cottages.

How do you describe your personal design style?

I’m a traditionalist at heart: classic shapes, classic scale. It better serves an end result that I strive for, which is to say, a home that looks collected and evolved and not too decorated—even a bit quirky—is more interesting. I’m inspired by the work of traditionalists: the classic elegance of Michael Smith, the minimal traditionalism of Daryl Carter, the edgy traditionalism of Axel Vervoordt, and recently, because I love their chalky palette, Brooke and Steve Giannetti. I’m most drawn to a color palette that is toned and a bit faded-looking, even slightly off, where red has brown undertones, or blue has gray in it, or yellow is cut with raw umber. It suggests an aged appearance, and that feels more friendly and soothing to me. Perhaps it suggests a sense of permanence, which feels comforting.

What’s a perfect day off for you?

I’m a total homebody, so I can be quite happy just puttering in my house—tweaking this or that. Now that it’s summer, however, a perfect day would start with a morning trip to a farmers’ market (my favorite is in St. Paul), playing a round of golf on a beautiful course and shooting 90 (remember, this is my “ideal” day!), taking a nap, then cooking a delicious meal while enjoying a glass of wine!

Holly Moore Studio & Home Goods

What trends in design are you loving these days?

I’m happy there’s been a trend toward smaller homes. Less is more. It’s a good thing in a lot of ways: Psychically (I think it’s better for the soul!). Environmentally. Aesthetically. A more thoughtful use of space and resources. Down with grandiosity—yay! I’m also loving the trend toward more matte finishes.

What do people most overlook in décor?

People miss opportunities in their homes to create better use of space when it comes to overlooked areas, such as a small niche or a long vacant wall. A place where a bench could sit, maybe a built-in with storage. Maybe a place for built-in cupboards or wardrobes flanking a window to offer great storage and some architecture.

What’s your dream house like?

Small, about 1,700 square feet. Constructed of a combination of shake shingle, stone and log with chink. All on one level. In the country with no immediate neighbors! A small dipping pool off the master bath. Fireplace in the main living area/open to the kitchen and one in the master bedroom, too. Oh yes, and a guest cottage! Surrounded by nature. 522 2nd St., Hudson, 612-354-7334, hollymooreinteriors.com

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Kelly is a southern transplant who has been covering news and lifestyle for national, regional, and local publications for more than 25 years. She's the Home and Design Editor at Mpls.St.Paul Magazine.